From risks to public opinion: how structural economic changes shape political attitudes and policy preferences

Across many Western countries, structural economic changes have had a substantial impact on labour markets over the past decades. Whereas the overall employment effects of these changes tend to be positive or neutral, they also have distributive consequences within countries. This dissertation examines how the associated shifts in the employment structure drive labour market outcomes in Western countries and shape the political attitudes and policy preferences of those affected. The dissertation comprises four individual studies, each shedding light on the underlying dynamics at play. Extending beyond the conventional focus on employment, the studies provide insights into how structural economic changes have impacted the labour market position of individuals at the lower end of the spectrum. In addition, the studies explore the drivers behind public opinion on structural economic transformations and related policies. <br>The findings illustrate how policymakers could design policies that enable individuals to reap the benefits of changes such as globalization, technological change, and the green transition. However, they also suggest that policymakers need to better explain why such policies are necessary given today’s unyielding political reality.<br>